The computer market has faced one of the worst times in recent memory. IDC analysts estimate that PC shipments fell 4.9 percent in the second quarter (Q2) of 2026, representing the first ever decline. in more than two years — though not one company was hurt.
Immersion was mainly controlled by “stubborn”. memory chip failure” Along with storage shortages and political issues, according to researchers. Revenues are rising mainly because companies are raising prices faster than demand is falling. Many PC brands have stockpiled inventory well in advance to avoid these price increases.
- Brand
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apple
- Operating system
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macOS
IDC says that the biggest Windows PC makers have often been hit the hardest. Market leader Lenovo’s shipments fell by 2.1%, while HP’s shipments fell by 9%. Dell fell 5 percent, while ASUS firmed with a 0.2 percent increase.
One exception was Apple. Its shipments rose 10.1 percent in Q2, giving it a 9.9 percent market share and closing the gap on its nearest rival, Dell (with a 13.6 percent share).
Why did Apple gain market share?
MacBook Neo played a key role
IDC believes Apple has bucked the PC industry’s downward trend for one key reason: MacBook Neo. The first budget laptop is designed for an audience the company has never reached before, and the shipments reflect that strong demand.
The Neo launched for $599, well below the MacBook Air’s typical starting point of more than $999, but retains much of the company’s design. It helps Using the iPhone chip it matches or exceeds the M1 in performance, but with lower power consumption. This allows Apple to cut costs without making as many compromises as some of its competitors (such as using a smaller battery).
Apple had to raise prices for the MacBook Neo in June, including a $100 increase. Nevertheless, the brand is still “well positioned against competitors facing the same cost pressures,” according to Jean Philippe Bouchard, IDC vice president of consumer devices. In other words, Windows competitors have also had to raise prices – the Neo is still a relative bargain.
The future looks bleak
Don’t expect the situation to improve soon. IDC doesn’t expect memory shortages and other issues to disappear until early 2028, and manufacturers expect more price jumps in 2027. You may still want to buy a PC now, though, as prices could get worse over the next year.
The second half of 2026 could be worse than the first. Companies aren’t hoarding as much as they used to, so IDC expects a “sharp slowdown” in growth during the final six months of the year.
IDC adds that there is also concern that the tech giants could “crowd out” their rivals. Heavyweights like Apple, Dell, and Lenovo can use their influence in other areas (such as phones and servers) to buy storage volumes that smaller companies can’t match. Your favorite indie computer brand may be struggling because it’s either overloaded or has to limit the products it sells.
